Sometimes it’s time for a change, and few things remind us of our stagnancy like the turn of a decade. If moving is part of your redemption plan this year, avoid becoming blindsided by changes you don’t want or expect—like living in a crime-ridden community, for example. 

How do you avoid landing in another rut of misfortune? The answer is easy: research your destination possibilities ahead of time.

Before your moving decision is final, take some time to ask yourself some important questions. You will be glad you did. Here are some basic questions to get you started along with reliable resources that offer the information you need. 

What is the cost of living?

The cost of living varies from region to region, and this affects everything from food to gas prices, housing expenses, and more. A significant increase in cost of living expenses might dampen your plans unless you’re getting a commensurate wage increase. 

You can find cost of living calculators online. These provide general information that’s very useful, but the best way is to do some shopping around yourself. Go online and look for local rent prices, housing market conditions, and state tax rates to name a few. 

What are the crime rates and statistics?

Will you and your family be safe in your new home? Taking the time to research crime rates and statistics provides the peace of mind you need, or it will inspire you to shift your sights to another location. You can find the information you’re looking for through the Uniform Crime Reporting Program. This data is based on information that is provided voluntarily from more than 18,000 law enforcement agencies across the country.

Will my children get a good education?

This is an important question if you have school-aged children. Even if you don’t, you can learn a lot about a community by the value they place on local schools. The National Center for Education Statistics provides data, statistics, reports, and more for all school districts in the United States. 

Is the job market promising?

Whether you have a position waiting for you or not, researching the job market provides valuable information about the local economy. The best way to find this information is through local newspapers, classified ad websites, and the local Chamber of Commerce. You can also get a general ideal through unemployment statistics found at the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Where can I find reliable movers?

Unless you plan to pack, load, and deliver your household belongings yourself, it’s a good idea to research moving companies. Make sure you go with licensed movers that are BBB-accredited, insured, and experienced in handling moves of all sizes and complexities. U.S.A. Gov Moving provides useful information for avoiding moving scams and much more. 

Are you ready to start the new decade with a stress-free relocation?


Whether you need local movers in Houston that offer community-focused service you can trust or long-distance movers that provide expert resources at a fair price, you won’t regret working with Westheimer Transfer & Storage! Get a free moving cost estimate today.